PAcree

     The final chapters of Van de Walle's book, Teaching Student Centered Mathematics grades 5-8, addresses and provides activities for algebraic reasoning, understanding equations and functions, analysis of data, and probability. The activities in chapter 9 look specifically at reasoning skills and the development of language and an understanding of symbolism that allows students to communicate their mathematical ideas. Activities range from the very simplest pf patterning to number tricks and equations. In chapter 10, the author moves from algebraic reasoning activities to activities that teach equations and functions, including graphing proportional relationships. "Real world" problems are used for student investigations into these relationships. Chapters 11 and 12 focus on the analysis of data,  describing of statistical information and finally developing the concepts of probability. The activities for learning probability include both theroerical and experimental probability.

     All of the chapters in this book provide activities with instructions on how to teach them to students with the goal in mind that our students need to think, do, and communicate mathematics. This book is a great resource for the teacher because it is filled with activities geared to help plan student-focused activities for teaching the rigorous mathematics that students are being asked to do. Additionally, the author also includes remediation and assessment ideas.

     In chapters 5-8, Van de Walle presents futher lessons which delve deeper into teaching concepts related to number theory, ratios and proportions, geometry, and measurement. Each chapter is organized around the basic goals of the lessons (Big Ideas) and provides basic information for the teacher on the concepts and sample activities to use to teach students. The lessons and activities are specifically geared for the upper elementary and middle school learner and at the end of each chapter are expanded lessons which would be appropriate to use for differentiation. The author also provides picture models, step by step instructions, examples of manipulatives, and notes on how to use technology for the activities listed.

     As schools attempt to meet state and federal guidelines of student achievement, teacher need resources to help students master the concepts at an ever increasing depth of understanding. Van de Walle's ideas and activities can be one of the resources. The book is user friendly and provides a great deal of information on the very math concepts that students need to know.  I have enjoyed re-acquainting myself with some of the mathematical concepts and have found many great activities which increase student involvement in math through Van de Walle's books.